Training the TSA
Nov 17, 2006 | 11:00 am
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Sep 2004
Location: DEN
Posts: 1,962
Training the TSA
I got to help train a trainee at ABQ a week or so ago. Luckily I had plenty of time, and I figured it was an opportunity.
Basically as the trainer went along telling the trainee how to screen a wheelchair passenger, I asked leading questions of the trainer: "I notice you say I need to take my shoes off, but on other flights I've been offered the option of having them swabbed..." or "At many screenings, I'm asked if I have any sensitive areas..." or "While I'm able to do a push-up so that you can clear the back of the cushion, other wheelchair users might not be able to..."
She took all my suggestions and relayed them to the trainee. Too bad she didn't have a cheat sheet or something of her own.
Basically as the trainer went along telling the trainee how to screen a wheelchair passenger, I asked leading questions of the trainer: "I notice you say I need to take my shoes off, but on other flights I've been offered the option of having them swabbed..." or "At many screenings, I'm asked if I have any sensitive areas..." or "While I'm able to do a push-up so that you can clear the back of the cushion, other wheelchair users might not be able to..."
She took all my suggestions and relayed them to the trainee. Too bad she didn't have a cheat sheet or something of her own.
Dec 19, 2006 | 8:45 pm
#6
Join Date: Jan 2004
Location: Borrego Springs, CA
Programs: UA 1P, Marriott Gold
Posts: 181
I had a similar interaction at SAN a while back.
In a Montana motel parking lot I was accosted by a dog that turned out to be a young search and rescue trainee canine. The handler asked if we could work for a while since the dog had not been exposed to a wheelchair before.
Again, I wasn't in a hurry and was glad to help.
Dec 20, 2006 | 11:58 am
#7
Original Poster
Join Date: Sep 2004
Location: DEN
Posts: 1,962
I doubt it, based on the fact that the trainee was at the ready with the handheld metal detector before the trainer told her to put it down.
I've had the opportunity to be a token wheelchair person for a couple of service dogs in training - that's always a pleasure.
I've had the opportunity to be a token wheelchair person for a couple of service dogs in training - that's always a pleasure.